Attach your instrument to the MIDI pedal using one of the instrument cables. Plug the second instrument cable into the pedal and your audio interface. This converts the outgoing signal from your instrument into a digital signal your computer can process and manipulate.
Open your audio production software and follow the necessary steps to create a new audio channel. Ensure the audio channel is assigned to the matching channel on the digital audio interface. This allows the audio traveling from your instrument through the pedal to be manipulated within your software program.
Configure your pedal's automation settings with your audio production program so the pedal controls distortion effects. Although specific methods vary by program, you will typically need to assign a function to your MIDI foot switch. Whenever audio effects are created, they typically include a bypass or activation switch. By assigning this switch to the MIDI switch within your pedal, you can quickly turn the distortion on and off.
Test your foot switch by playing your instrument and pressing down on the foot switch. If you have created the correct MIDI assignments, the audio will be processed instantly with a distortion effect. If it does not, double-check your MIDI assignments to ensure you have made the correct configurations.